This route starts in Barnard Castle, a market town that sits of the north bank of the River Tees. It is part of the Walney to Whitby (W2W) cycle route.
A mostly on-road route it takes you through the Tees Valley, onto Kildale Moor and then into the beautiful North York Moors National Park. The route then travels through the hilly Esk Valley and onto the seaside town of Whitby.
There are traffic-free sections between Commondale and Castleton, and over the Larpool Viaduct into Whitby.
It is possible to join or exit this route from any of the numerous station stops on the Esk Valley Line between Great Ayton and Whitby.
On route, you may want to visit the 12th-century castle that gave Barnard Castle its name. With amazing views over the Tees Gorge, this is not to be missed.
Whitby Abbey is highly recommended as one of the best tourist attractions on the Yorkshire coast and a site that inspired Bram Stoker's Gothic novel, Dracula.
Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.